Tax Law

How the 130% Super Deduction Works for Businesses

Learn about the 130% super deduction, a UK tax relief for businesses investing in plant and machinery, and how it can benefit your company

Introduction to the 130% Super Deduction

The 130% super deduction is a UK tax relief introduced to encourage businesses to invest in plant and machinery. This scheme allows companies to claim a 130% capital allowance on qualifying investments, providing a significant reduction in their corporation tax liability. The super deduction is available for investments made between 1 April 2021 and 31 March 2023.

To be eligible for the super deduction, businesses must invest in new, unused plant and machinery that is not second-hand or leased. The assets must also be used for the purpose of the business, such as manufacturing, processing, or distribution. The super deduction can be claimed in addition to the annual investment allowance, providing further tax relief for businesses.

How the Super Deduction Works

The super deduction works by allowing businesses to claim a 130% capital allowance on qualifying investments. This means that for every £100 invested, the business can claim a £130 deduction against its taxable profits. The super deduction can be claimed in the same year as the investment is made, providing an immediate reduction in corporation tax liability.

For example, if a business invests £10,000 in new machinery, it can claim a £13,000 capital allowance. If the business has a taxable profit of £50,000, the super deduction would reduce its taxable profits to £37,000, resulting in a significant reduction in corporation tax liability.

Eligible Assets for the Super Deduction

The super deduction is available for investments in a wide range of plant and machinery, including machinery, equipment, and vehicles. Eligible assets include items such as manufacturing equipment, computer hardware, and telecommunications equipment. The assets must be new and unused, and not second-hand or leased.

Some assets are excluded from the super deduction, such as buildings, structures, and land. Additionally, assets that are used for non-business purposes, such as private use or rental, are not eligible for the super deduction. Businesses should consult with a tax professional to determine which assets are eligible for the super deduction.

Claiming the Super Deduction

To claim the super deduction, businesses must complete a tax return and submit it to HMRC. The tax return must include details of the qualifying investments, including the date of purchase, the cost of the asset, and the business use percentage. Businesses can claim the super deduction in the same year as the investment is made, or in a subsequent year if the asset is still in use.

It is essential to keep accurate records of qualifying investments, including receipts, invoices, and asset registers. Businesses should also consult with a tax professional to ensure that they are claiming the correct amount of super deduction and to avoid any potential errors or penalties.

Conclusion and Next Steps

The 130% super deduction is a valuable tax relief for businesses investing in plant and machinery. By claiming the super deduction, businesses can reduce their corporation tax liability and improve their cash flow. To take advantage of the super deduction, businesses should consult with a tax professional to determine which assets are eligible and to ensure that they are claiming the correct amount of relief.

Businesses should also review their investment plans and consider bringing forward any planned investments to take advantage of the super deduction. With the super deduction available until 31 March 2023, businesses have a limited time to take advantage of this valuable tax relief. By acting now, businesses can reduce their tax liability and improve their financial performance.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the 130% super deduction?

The 130% super deduction is a UK tax relief that allows businesses to claim a 130% capital allowance on qualifying investments in plant and machinery.

How does the super deduction work?

The super deduction works by allowing businesses to claim a 130% capital allowance on qualifying investments, providing a significant reduction in corporation tax liability.

What assets are eligible for the super deduction?

Eligible assets include new, unused plant and machinery, such as machinery, equipment, and vehicles, but exclude buildings, structures, and land.

How do I claim the super deduction?

To claim the super deduction, businesses must complete a tax return and submit it to HMRC, including details of qualifying investments and business use percentage.

Can I claim the super deduction in a subsequent year?

Yes, businesses can claim the super deduction in a subsequent year if the asset is still in use, but must keep accurate records of qualifying investments.

How long is the super deduction available for?

The super deduction is available for investments made between 1 April 2021 and 31 March 2023, so businesses should act now to take advantage of this valuable tax relief.